One of the most important things is that you feel comfortable and confident in the person offering you a service. Some salons, spas or therapists offer taster sessions or free consultations. This is a good opportunity for you to chat through any concerns and ask questions about treatments.
Tips for finding a therapist
• Ask your doctor, nurse or support group for recommendations• Your doctor or GP may be able to offer you free services – ask them what is available
• Look to see that the practitioner is either a member of a professional body or explains their relevant experience – ask for testimonials
• Word of mouth – ask other patients if they can make recommendations
• When calling to make an appointment ask what experience the person has in working with cancer patients
• Ask the cost and duration of treatment – ask if any discounts apply to cancer patients
• Do mention what stage of treatment you are in
• Ask if they offer a free consultation or taster session
Should I look for a registered therapist?
Do remember that therapists are not medically trained and offer you a complementary service to help support you. They are normally very dedicated to helping people and have chosen their therapy to genuinely offer a caring service.
In the UK there are very few laws about the practice of complementary therapies. That is why most therapies have their own excellent regulating body in the form of “societies” or “institutes”. These organisations put in place standards, training and practice guide lines.
In today’s society it would seem that we are becoming unhealthily obsessed with qualifications, insurance and liability. Having said that it is important that therapists always consider their duty to care for you and take into consideration health, safety and wellbeing aspects, which the majority do. It is always important to check that your therapist has had sufficient training, attended courses or has experience in their field. But don’t let this overwhelm you as the list of suggestions above will easily help you find someone suitable.
Remember that for centuries people have been massaging and offering the practice of healing and kind touch gestures. Some of these traditions and techniques are very ancient. It is only in the last 10 years that we have seen some of these practices start to receive “official” status and certification.
The people who offer services in the field of gentle touch and wisdom on the whole do so to share there skill and passion for people.
Kindly note – It is always recommended that you check with your doctor before having any form of alternative of complementary therapy.
Making the most of your appointment
• It’s a good idea to arrive 10 minutes before you appointment time so that you are not in a rush• Most therapists will ask for your medical history , this is normal, so it may be a good idea to take a copy of your current medication with you - just brief notes is fine
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Make sure that you are not rushing off somewhere straight after your treatment, plan some time to relax and perhaps have a herbal tea
• Give feed back…if something feels good let your therapist know, equally if its doesn’t you should say